A RUNCORN soldier who has fought in two wars has swiftly marched up the military ranks to the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Proud dad Frank Morton is delighted to have witnessed his son rise to the top after showing a keen interest in the Army since the tender age of 14.

The 81-year-old, of Oxford Close in Runcorn, has watched eagerly from as his son, Frank Jnr, achieved a string of promotions for his competence and expertise.

The 55-year-old, who was appointed commanding officer earlier this month, is in Iraq to help with peace-keeping duties.

Many reach his rank after attending university and training at Sandhurst. But for Frank Jnr sheer grit and determination have spurred him on.

Frank Snr said: 'He's worked hard and always been determined to do well.

'I worry about him being out in Iraq, so much so that I can't sleep at night sometimes for worrying.

'But he's been out there about four to five weeks now and I've received a few letters from him.

'I am so proud of him for becoming a lieutenant colonel that I could well up talking about it sometimes.' Frank Jnr's enthusiasm for military life began when he joined Runcorn's army cadets as a teenager.

His childhood was spent between Percival Lane in Runcorn where he was born and his family home in Frodsham.

During the early years of his career, the dad-of-two became a sergeant in the Welsh Guards before enlisting in the King's Own Scottish Borderers regiment where he worked his way up from captain to major.

Remarkably, Frank Jnr spent just 18 months as a major before being elevated to colonel.

Over the years he has been stationed in a number of countries and served in the Gulf War.

Frank Snr said: 'He's tried to give it up a few times and spend more time with his children but he gets given better offers.'

He believes his son's drive partly derives from his working class background and being one of nine children.

He was also heavily inspired by his father who served with the Kentish Regiment and fought in Burma and Japan.

'Since he's also risen up the ranks he's had the opportunity to meet various members of the Royal family and I have a picture of him with Princess Anne.

'I don't know what he'll do now as he plans to retire from the Army in August. But I'm sure they'll still look after him after he retires.'